Oncology & Hematology Coding Alert

Differentiate seeds and markers before choosing 55875 or 55876.Brachytherapy seed placement coding challenges even veteran coders because physicians often work together on the service, which limits what you can report. Overcome these challenges with three expert tips, and avoid costly brachytherapy denials.Skip Separate Cysto CodingTraditionally, a urologist will place the needles to implant the brachytherapy seeds. The physician providing the service will report 55875 (Transperineal placement of needles or catheters into prostate for interstitial radioelement application, with or without cystoscopy), says Michael A. Ferragamo, MD, FACS, clinical assistant professor at the State University of New York at Stony Brook.Don't miss: Pay special attention to the fact that 55875's descriptor says "with or without cystoscopy." The physician may perform a cystoscopic examination to determine whether any seeds have been misplaced into the bladder or prostatic urethra. Even though he performed a cystoscopic examination and may have a separate diagnosis (such as history [...]